Herbal composition weight management

ABSTRACT

Herbal extracts composition suitable for weight management in mammals is disclosed. The composition comprises a mixture of  Garcinia  extract, Green tea extract, Green coffee extract and Banaba extract. The method of reducing weight, and treating diabetes in mammals involve oral administration of the composition. The invention further relates to a method of producing and standardizing the individual extract useful for human health.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This is a non-provisional application of provisional application No.60/733,924 filed on Nov. 4, 2005, the entire disclosure of which ishereby incorporated by reference and to which application priority isclaimed under 35 USC §120.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Obesity and overweight are risk factors for type 2 diabetes,hypertension and coronary heart disease that cause morbidity, mortalityand high health-care expenditure.

Obesity is the number one nutritional problem in the U.S. An estimatedone third of Americans are overweight, with an additional 25 percentbeing classified as obese. Being overweight significantly increases aperson's risk of developing diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and otherdiseases. The clustering of hyperinsulinemia, dyslipidemia, type 2diabetes mellitus and hyper tension is called insulin resistancesyndrome or metabolic syndrome, and syndrome X. Accordingly, evaluationof obesity for the prevention of syndrome X must be conducted using notonly body weight or Body Mass Index (BMI) but also Visceral FatAccumulation (VFA) [Hayamizu et al. 2003].

Type 2 diabetes is a chronic disease associated with high rates ofmorbidity and premature mortality [Nathan et al. 1993]. An alarmingincrease in the prevalence of type 2 diabetes is expected [Wild et al.2004] and the need for preventive action is widely acknowledged. Whileincreased physical activity and restriction of energy intake cansubstantially reduce the incidence of type 2 diabetes [Tuomilehto et al.2001; Knowler et al. 2002] insight into the role of other lifestylefactors may contribute to additional prevention strategies for type 2diabetes.

The objective of the present invention is to provide a simultaneousmulti approach way to control weight gain by providing a herbal extractscomposition which can increase metabolism, thermogenesis, and controldiabetes mellitus. Furthermore, it has been established that fullspectrum herbal extract has more biological activity than the purifiedherbal extracts which is devoid of other important micronutrientessential for synergistic effect. As a result the present inventionstrives to give each component of the herbal extracts composition as afull spectrum extract containing all the biologically active compoundspresent in the herb.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a means for weight management in the formof a herbal composition comprising Garcinia cambogia extract, Green teaextract, Green coffee extract and Banaba extract. This composition canbe made easily for human consumption to give desired weight loss. Thereduction in weight can be achieved through normalized blood sugarlevels, decreased fat synthesis, enhanced metabolism, lowering the riskof type 2 diabetes mellitus and antihypertension.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1. is a graphical representation of the change in mean fat massbetween baseline and end of study for all three groups.

FIG. 2. is a graphical representation of the change in mean body weightbetween baseline and end of study for all three groups.

FIG. 3. is a graphical representation of the change in weight frombaseline to end of study at each two-week interval for all three groups.

FIG. 4. is a graphical representation of the change in girth frombaseline to end of study at each two-week interval for all three groups.

FIG. 5. is a graphical representation of the change in BMI from baselineto end of study at each two-week interval for all three groups.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Various embodiments of the present invention will be described in detailwith reference to the tables and figures, wherein like referencenumerals represent like parts throughout the several views. Reference tovarious embodiments does not limit the scope of the invention, which islimited only by the scope of the claims attached hereto. Additionally,any examples set forth in this specification are not intended to belimiting and merely set forth some of the many possible embodiments forthe claimed invention.

The invention relates to herbal extracts composition for weightmanagement and treating diabetes in humans. The invention furtherrelates to a method for producing and standardizing the herbal extractscomposition useful for human health.

The herbal composition of the present invention comprises Garciniaextract, Green tea extract, Green coffee extract and Banaba extract. Thefour extracts are known for their weight control and or other healthbenefits by different mechanisms but individually none provide all thedesired weight control and health benefits. Indeed there arise a need toprovide an improved composition for weight control and other preferredhealth benefits. The purpose of the present invention is to get all thedesired benefits using a single herbal composition comprising Garciniacambogia extract, Green tea extract, Green coffee extract and Banabaextract.

1. GARCINIA CAMBOGIA

Garcinia Cambogia is an exotic fruit grown in South India and has beenused for centuries to impart a distinctive sour flavor to Indiancooking. The active ingredient extracted from the Garcinia Cambogia(Indica) is (−)hydroxycitric acid that acts as an appetite suppressantand a lipid-lowering agent, as well as a fat burning agent. One wayhydroxycitrate (HCA) present in the fruit rind of Garcinia speciesreduces weight gain is by competitively inhibiting ATP-citrate lyase,the enzyme responsible for catalyzing the extramitochondrial cleavage ofcitrate to oxaloacetate and acetyl-CoA, a building block of fatty acidsynthesis [U.S. Pat. No. 3,764,692]. The mode of action of HCA appearsto center on its ability to slow the regeneration of acetyl CoA—thecitrate cleavage enzyme outside the mitochondria in hepatic cells. Theeffect is to reduce the major source of carbon atoms available for thesynthesis of triglycerides, cholesterol and storage of fat withoutreduction in energy output. Carbon atoms are instead directed toglycogen in the muscles and liver, resulting in more stamina andincreased endurance, but not increased body weight. Therefore, HCA isconsidered to be an effective herbal medicine for controlling obesityand cholesterol by inhibiting lipogenesis in the body.

HCA has also been demonstrated to cause weight loss in rodents by areduction in food intake rather than through a direct effect on fattyacid synthesis. HCA improves synthesis of glycogen. Increased glycogenlevels in the liver and muscles result in reduced appetite and foodintake. In an animal study it was concluded that treatment with Garciniacambogia fruit extract resulted in reduction of both serum and liverlipid to near normalcy. This hypolipidemic property of Garcinia cambogiain turn reduces the peroxidative damage, enhanced by ethanol [Mahendranet al 2001]. In a double-blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled trial itwas observed that Garcinia cambogia extract had significantly reducedvisceral, subcutaneous and total fat areas compared with placebo group[Hayamizu et al 2003]. Therefore, Garcinia cambogia extract is alsoconsidered a fat burning agent.

The sodium salt of hydroxycitric acid was studied by the Roche companyin the 1970's and was shown to reduce food intake and cause weight lossin rodents. [Sullivan C, 1977] Subsequently, Heymsfield et al. evaluatedthe calcium salt of hydroxycitric acid in a human clinical trial andfound it to be ineffective for weight loss, but failed to measure bloodlevels. [Heymsfield, S B et al. 1998] The calcium salt of hydroxycitricacid used by Heymsfield may dissociate poorly and may not be absorbedand if so, poor absorption would explain the lack of efficacy in theHeymsfield study. Preuss et al. have published an abstract in which amixture of calcium and potassium hydroxycitrate was used in a humanclinical weight loss trial and was shown to be effective. [Preuss H. G.,et al. 2002] Blood levels confirmed absorption of this hydroxycitratecompound. [Loe Y C et al. 2001, Loe Y C et al. 2001]

In various embodiments, the Garcinia extract used in the weight losscomposition described herein includes tri-, tetra-, or penta-metalcomplex salts of hydroxycitric acid. In an embodiment, the presentinvention provides a composition comprising a complex metal salt of(−)hydroxycitric acid either alone or in combination with the lactone ofHCA and citric acid, wherein the salt comprises mineral supplements suchas sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium and zinc. The HCA complex metalsalt is advantageously highly soluble in water, non-hygroscopic andstable in solution. Thereby avoiding problems with poor disassociationand absorption. In alternative embodiments, single complex salts of HCA,such as (Ca, K, Mg, Zn) HCA are included in the composition inalternative to or in addition to the tri-, tetra-, or penta-metalcomplex salts of hydroxycitric acid.

In another embodiment, the complex metal salt of HCA can be manufacturedby keeping the pH of the final product below 4, in which case theproduct will contain a combination of HCA and the lactone of HCA. Thislow pH embodiment can be formulated in carbonated beverages in which thepH is maintained below 4 for stability and is suitable for use in foodproducts without affecting their flavor or taste.

The complex metal salt of (−)hydroxycitric acid is prepared from waterextract of Garcinia and a mixture of bases selected from oxides,bicarbonates, carbonates, hydroxides of sodium, potassium, calcium,magnesium and zinc. Hydroxycitric acid is a tricarboxylic acid andtherefore each HCA molecule can have only up to three different cations.However, some cations (such as the divalent cations Ca⁺⁺ and Mg⁺⁺) canbond with two different molecules of hydroxycitric acid. Therefore,complex tetra or penta salts can be created using various cations andhydroxycitric acid. In some embodiments, the complex metal salt ofhydroxycitric acid consists of two classes of cations, at least onebivalent ion—selected from Calcium (Ca), Magnesium (Mg) and Zinc (Zn)and at least one univalent ion—selected from Potassium (K) and Sodium(Na).

Embodiments of the complex metal salt of HCA can be preparedconveniently as highly soluble, partially soluble, or insoluble salt inwater.

A representative general structure of complex salt of HCA is

where (X,X) is selected from (Ca), (Mg), (Zn), (K,K), (Na, Na), (K, Na).

One particular representative example of four salt of Hydroxycitric acidis

One particular representative example of three salt of Hydroxycitricacid is

Five salt of Garcinia acid occurs when the terminal acid groups arebound with one univalent ion and one bivalent ion thereby giving room tothe binding of third HCA molecule to the vacant bivalent ion.

One embodiment of complex metal salt of HCA that is essentiallynon-hygroscopic and stable in solutions includes (by weight percent)40-75% (−)hydroxycitric acid (HCA) and/or 0.1-30% lactone of(−)hydroxycitric acid, 1-5% citric acid, 1-10% sodium (or alternativelyless than 1%), 1-35% Potassium, 1-2-% Calcium, 1-15% Magnesium, and0.1-10% Zinc.

Embodiments of the complex metal salt of (−)hydroxycitric acid and/orits lactone can be manufactured by an economically viable process. Inone embodiment, the Garcinia rind is extracted with demineralized waterat room temperature. In contrast, the boiling or hot extraction used inthe art gives an extract liquid that is enriched with unwanted watersoluble components. In an embodiment, the unwanted soluble matter isminimized by extracting the rind at room temperature. The extract liquidis treated with a calcium base to neutral pH to get insoluble calciumhydroxycitrate. The HCA content of this insoluble material isapproximately 70%. If the neutralization is done at pH more than 7, theHCA content in the resulting insoluble salt will be 50-60%.

The insoluble calcium salt of HCA is mixed with water and 10% sulphurousacid. This step removed the calcium as insoluble calcium sulphite. ThepH is maintained at 3.0 to 3.5 during this operation. The art employsphosphoric acid in which case calcium cannot be removed as insolublesalt because both HCA and phosphoric acids are weak acids and anexchange reaction will not take place. The filtrate liquid, light brownin color, is treated with the preferred mixture of metal bases toneutral pH, treated with activated charcoal, filtered and spray dried toget white to off-white complex metal salt of HCA with or without thelactone of HCA. The resulting product is highly soluble in water (morethan 20%), non-hygroscopic and stable in solution. Additionaldescription for preparation of complex metal salt HCA from Garcinia ispresented in U.S. Application Publication No. US 2004-0259937 A1, hereinincorporated by reference.

In an embodiment, the Garcinia extract is a multimineral salt of hydroxycitric acid (4-salt HCA), which is obtained from water extract ofGarcinia Cambogia fruit. In one embodiment, the Garcinia extract (4-saltHCA) contains 60 to 65% HCA bound to Ca, K, Mg and Zn moieties. The4-salt HCA is non-toxic, tasteless, and odorless powder.

2. BANABA (5% COROSOLIC ACID)

Banaba whose botanical name is Lagerstroemia speciosa is a plant that isfound in India, The Philippines, and parts of South East Asia. The planthas been traditionally used in the Philippines to treat diabetes andobesity. Banaba extracts have been found to assist in weight loss. In ananimal study conducted by Suzuki, et al. it was shown that Banabaextracts induced weight loss and reduced adipose tissue weight. [SuzukiY et al. 1999] Additionally, a significant drop of up to 65% in hepaticlipids was observed. Extracts of Banaba leaves containing a triterpenecompound called Corosolic acid (2-hydroxyursolic acid) have demonstratedthe capability to increase glucose uptake and lower blood sugar levels.Murakami et al. showed that Corosolic acid extracted from Banaba leavesstimulate significant glucose transport activity in vitro in Ehrlichascites tumor cell studies. [Murakami C et al. 1993] Tommasi et al.reported the hypoglycemic action of Corosolic acid. [Tommasi N D et al.1991] In an 8-week human clinical study conducted in Japan with 26subjects, it was confirmed by Ikeda et al. that Corosolic acid improvedglucose tolerance and improved blood sugar levels. [Ikeda Y et al. 1999]The same study also found that intake of Banaba extract was not harmfulto any of the subjects.

3. EXTRACT OF GREEN COFFEE (COFFEE ROBUSTA 25% CHLOROGENIC ACID)

Green Coffee containing phenolic compounds called Chlorogenic acids mayhave the ability to assist in weight loss by blocking the uptake ofcarbohydrates. In a human clinical trial Johnston K L et al. evaluatedChlorogenic acids and found that they have an antagonistic effect onglucose absorption in the intestine. [Johnston K L et al. 2003]Chlorogenic acids may also induce weight loss inhibiting glucosecreation from the metabolism of carbohydrates, thus inducing higherrates of metabolism in the body. In support of this hypothesis, Arion WJ et al. and Hemmerle H et al. showed that Chlorogenic acids inhibitglucose-6-phosphate thereby curtailing the formation of glucose that isformed from gluconeogenesis and glycogenolysis. [Arion W J, et al. 1997,Hemmerle H, et al. 1997]

Tea and coffee are the most widely consumed beverages in the world nextto water [Schaefer et al 2004]. Caffeine present in tea and coffee hasbeen shown to increase energy expenditure in humans, and weight loss hasreduced risk factors for diabetes in clinical trials [Dulloo et al 1999;Bracco et al 1995]. Caffeine ingestion can acutely reduce glucosestorage, but beneficial effects of caffeine on lipid oxidation anduncoupling protein-3 expression have also been suggested.

Coffee contains numerous substances; among them, caffeine, chlorogenicacids, quinides, and magnesium have been shown to affect glucosemetabolism in animal or metabolic studies. In a Dutch study, it has beenshown that higher coffee consumption was associated with a substantiallylower risk of type 2 diabetes. Coffee is the major source of thechlorogenic acids. Intake of chlorogenic acids have been shown to reduceglucose concentrations in rats, and intake of quinides, degradationproducts of chlorogenic acids, increased insulin sensitivity in rats.Chlorogenic acids contribute to the antioxidant effects of coffee, mayreduce hepatic glucose output through inhibition ofglucose-6-phosphatase, and may improve tissue mineral distributionthrough its action as a metal chelator. In addition, chlorogenic acidsact as a competitive inhibitor of glucose absorption in the intestine.

Recently, coffee consumption and type 2 diabetes has been reviewed by R.M. van Dam et al [R M Van Dam et al 2005]. The authors systematicallyreviewed all available epidemiological evidence on the relation betweenhabitual coffee consumption and risk of type 2 diabetes. The authorsconclude that their systematic review supports the hypothesis thathabitual coffee consumption is associated with a substantially lowerrisk of type 2 diabetes.

4. EXTRACT OF GREEN TEA (20% L-THEANINE, 35% POLYPHENOLS, 15% EGCG)

Green Tea leaves contain 1-2% by weight of an L-enantiomer stereoisomerof an amino acid. This amino acid is called Theanine and theL-enantiomer stereoisomer is referred to as L-Theanine. Extracts ofGreen Tea (Camellia sinensis) containing higher concentrations ofL-Theanine may have the ability to assist in weight loss by reducingstress. L-Theanine's stress reducing capabilities are well documented.In human clinical trials, Mason R et al. found that L Theaninestimulates the production of alpha brain waves thereby creating a senseof alertness and relaxation. [Mason R. 2001] It was also found thatL-Theanine is involved in the formation of gamma amino butyric acid(GABA). This leads to a relaxation effect as GABA influences the levelsof the neurotransmitters, dopamine and serotonin. In another clinicaltrial Juneja L R et al. confirmed that L-Theanine increase alpha brainwave activity. [Juneja L R 1999]

Oral administration of green tea extract rich in catechin polyphenol andcaffeine stimulates thermogenesis and fat oxidation and thus has thepotential to influence body weight and body composition via changes inboth energy expenditure and substrate utilization. In particular, teapolyphenol have been suggested to play a role in lowering the oxidationof low density cholesterol (LDL), with a consequent decreased risk ofheart disease [Weisburger, 1999]. In a cross-cultural correlation studyof sixteen cohorts, known as the Seven Countries Study, the averageflavanol intake was inversely correlated with mortality rates ofcoronary heart disease after 25 years of follow-up. [Hertog et al.,1995; Hollman et al., 1999]

5. SAFETY OF Garcinia EXTRACT 4-SALT HCA AND THE OTHER EXTRACTS

Garcinia has been used in foods as a seasoning for many years. Therehave been several clinical trials showing it to be safe in acuteadministration at doses as high as 6-30 times the dose used in dietsupplements and in extended doses in obese and overweight subjects.[Preuss, H. G. et al. 2004, van Loon, L. et al. 2000, and Heymsfield, S.1998] Cantox Health Sciences International, Missisauga, ON Canada, wascommissioned by Indfrag Limited to do a safety assessment of HCA. Afterreviewing all the pertinent scientific literature Cantox found norelevant safety issues at doses in the range of 1 to 5 grams a day. HCAhas been used for many years in supplements without significant adverseeffects.

The safety of Banaba extract is reinforced by the fact that it has beentraditionally used in the Philippines for many years. Shirai et al.confirmed Banaba's safety in an in vivo mouse model. [Shirai M. et al.1994] Green Coffee extract has a history of safe usage as a foodingredient. L-Theanine has a history of safe usage as a dietarysupplement.

6. HERBAL COMPOSITION

One embodiment of the herbal composition of the present invention ispresented in Table 1. The herbal composition may additionally comprisepharmaceutically acceptable excipients.

TABLE 1 An Embodiment of the Herbal Composition of Present InventionExpressed as Range of Proportion of Extracts Approx. wt % in Name of thebotanical extract Daily Adult Dose composition Garcinia extract 1950 mgto 4875 mg 55% to 88% Green tea extract 225 mg to 600 mg  4% to 19%Green coffee extract 345 mg to 865 mg  6% to 28% Banaba extract  75 mgto 190 mg 1% to 7%

One embodiment of the herbal composition includes a daily dose of about3900 mg Garcinia 4 salt-HCA, 450 mg Green coffee extract (25%chlorogenic acids), 600 mg Green Tea extract (25% L-Theanine and 35%Polyphenols: 15% EGCG), 150 mg Banaba extract (5% Corosolic acid).

The composition of the present invention, in addition to the activeingredients noted in Table 1 above, may also contain pharmaceuticalexcipients that are usually employed to prepare any oral dosage formsuch as powder, tablets, capsules, syrups, and liquids etc.

The excipients, such as starch, pre-gelatinized starch, dicalciumphosphate, polyvinyl povidine, magnesium stearate, talc, ethanol,isopropanol, or other alcohols, carboxymethyl cellulose,hydroxymethylcellulose, ethyl cellulose or other cellulose materials ora mixture thereof may be used. A suitable amount of excipient isemployed for formation of the selected oral delivery form. Thecomposition may also contain preservatives, which may be selected fromparabens, including paraben salts such as propylparaben sodium andmethyl paraben sodium, or 2-bromo-2-nitropropane-1,3-diol (BRONOPOL) ora mixtures thereof.

The Daily Adult Dose presented in Table 1 may be divided into multipledoses administered at time intervals throughout a 24 hour interval. Invarious embodiments, the daily dose is divided for administration asone, two, three, four, five, or six doses per day. In a furtherembodiment, the daily dose is orally administered in two divided dosesof 2 caplets per dose. In an embodiment, the herbal composition isadministered 30-60 minutes before a meal.

Table 2 gives the proportion of the extracts in one embodiment of atablet or capsule made by mixing the herbal extracts. Two to fivetablets or capsules illustrated in Table 2 would provide an adult dailydose. The tablets or capsules are administered in one or more divideddoses. In one embodiment, the divided doses are administered frombetween 2 hours to 30 minutes before one or more meals within a day.

TABLE 2 An Embodiment of the Herbal Composition of Present InventionExpressed as Specific Proportion of Extracts mg per tablet Approx. % byweight of Name of the botanical extract or capsule active ingredientsGarcinia extract 975 mg 76.5% Green tea extract 150 mg 11.8% Greencoffee extract 112 mg 8.8% Banaba extract  37 mg 2.9% Excipients q.s. —

The compositions provided above are dependent on the content of theindividual extracts, as described below. As is understood, the quantityof an extract included in the present herbal composition is adjustedbased on the potency of the individual extract. Alternatively, anextract is standardized according to the contents described below foruse in the present herbal composition.

Garcinia extract contains greater than 60% (−)hydroxycitric acid, lessthan 5% lactone of (−)hydroxycitric acid, less than 5% citric acid, 4-6%calcium, 4-6% potassium, 8-10% magnesium, 0.4-0.6% zinc and less than 1%sodium. A unique (−)hydroxycitric acid composition is described andclaimed in published US patent application US 2004/0259937 hereinincorporated by reference. The (−)hydroxycitric acid compositioncontains 40-75% (−)hydroxycitric acid, 0.1-30% lactone of(−)hydroxycitric acid, 1-5% citric acid, 1-10% sodium, 1-35% potassium,1-20% calcium, 1-15% magnesium and 0.1-10% zinc.

In one embodiment of the invention, the content of calcium in theGarcinia extract is 20-80 mg per gram of complex metal salt of HCA. Inanother embodiment, the content of magnesium is 60-100 mg per gram ofcomplex metal salt of HCA. In yet another embodiment, the content ofpotassium is 20-100 mg per gram of complex metal salt of HCA. In yetanother embodiment, the content of zinc is 2-6 mg per gram of complexmetal salt of HCA.

The active ingredients in the full spectrum Green tea extract arecatechin polyphenols, caffeine, L-theanine and other amino acids. Thecompositions provided herein utilize a unique full spectrum green teaextract containing greater than 35% polyphenols in which greater than15% is EGCG, as well as containing approximately 11-13% Caffeine,L-theanine 21-23%.

The active ingredients in the full spectrum extract of green coffee arechlorogenic acids, caffeine and polyphenols. The present inventionutilizes a unique full spectrum coffee extract containing a minimum of25% chlorogenic acids, 1-2% caffeine and greater than 40% polyphenols.

Banaba extract in the present invention contains 5% corosolic acid alongwith other biologically active constituents.

All the extracts are produced using water or aqueous methanol assolvent. The extract are mixed in the above said proportion along withexcipients appropriate for the selected delivery form, in a high speedblender to get uniformity in terms of color and active ingredient. Theresulting blend is then tableted, encapsulated or provided in powderedor liquid/syrup form.

In an embodiment consistent with that presented in Table 2 above, theactive ingredient contents per tablet is summarized in table 3.

TABLE 3 Active Ingredients Per Tablet Name of the active ingredient mgof active ingredient per tablet (−)Hydroxycitric acid 600-660 mg Polyphenol 90-100 mg  EGCG 23-30 mg Caffeine 18-22 mg L-theanine 35-40mg Chlorogenic acids 25-35 mg Colosolic acid  2-3 mg Calcium 55-65 mg

HCA, EGCG, Caffeine, L-theanine, Chlorogenic acids and Colosolic acidpresent in the composition are estimated using High pressure Liquidchromatography (HPLC). Polyphenols are estimated by UV method.

The present invention is described in further detail in the followingclinical experiments, which are merely exemplary and are not intended tolimit the scope of the invention.

7. EXAMPLE Efficacy and Safety Study of Active HCA and Active HCA

7.1 Summary

A three-group, parallel, double-blind, randomized, prospective,placebo-controlled, efficacy and safety study was completed to test theweight-reduction effects of Garcinia extract 4-salt HCA (active HCA),and a combination of Garcinia extract 4-salt HCA, Banaba extract, GreenCoffee extract, and Green Tea extract (herbal composition) in healthyoverweight and obese adults over a 12-week period. Products evaluatedduring this study are shown in Table 4.

The per-protocol patient population consisted of 91 subjects of Asianethnicity with BMI values between 28 and 40 kg/m². Two-thirds of thepatient population were male. One-third of the patient population wasfemale. The ages of the patient population varied from 19 to 58 years ofage with a mean age in the mid-to-late thirties. The patients activitylevel at work ranged from sedentary to heavy.

Patients were randomized between three treatment arms (1:1:1 ratio) andreceived either Herbal Composition, Active HCA or Placebo for 12 weeks.Study endpoints were evaluated at weeks 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12.

The following products were evaluated. The composition was developed byIndfrag Ltd. with technical assistance from Dr. Fred Pescatore, MD, MPH,CCN. The supplements used in the trial were produced and certified tocontain the active ingredients, in the dose specified, by themanufacturer and sponsor of the trial, Indfrag Limited, 1320, 12 Cross,Indiranagar II Stage, Bangalore 560-038, India. Each lot that wasindividually assayed and the quality of the extracts was ensured byCertificates of Analysis provided by Indfrag Ltd

TABLE 4 Products Evaluated During Study Product Active Formula ActiveHCA Placebo Contents Garcinia extract 4-salt Garcinia extract 4-saltCellulose HCA HCA Maltodextrin Banaba Extract Green Coffee Extract GreenTea Extract

The primary efficacy endpoint of the study was reduced fat mass on thedual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scan between baseline and 12week visit and loss of 5% or more of body weight at 12 weeks.

The secondary efficacy endpoints of the study were: improved bodycomposition, increase lean mass and improved bone density measured bydual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scan; reduced abdominal girth;improved lipid profiles; reduced insulin resistance calculated by theHOMA-IR method, ability to maintain a weight loss diet and/or diminishedappetite; and improved quality of life based on a quality of lifequestionnaire (QLQ).

The primary safety endpoints were physical examination (HR, SBP, DBP)and safety laboratory values (Complete Blood count (CBC), BUN,electrolytes, glucose, creatinine, calcium, AST, ALT, AlkalinePhosphatase, total bilirubin, uric acid, urine analysis, cholesterol,triglycerides, TSH, HbA1c, pregnancy test (females), amylase). Thesecondary safety endpoint was adverse events.

It was found that the significant reduction in body fat and significantbody weight loss of 6.18% by the active formula group met the primaryefficacy objectives of the study.

On analyzing the efficacy data for the active HCA it was found that bodyfat reduced significantly thus meeting a primary efficacy objective.Though body weight reduced significantly, the reduction of only 2.91%was not enough to meet the primary efficacy objective of a 5% bodyweight reduction.

In addition, the active formula group and active HCA groups also showeda significant reduction in abdominal girth which was listed as asecondary efficacy objective.

Furthermore, both active groups also showed a decrease in diastolicblood pressure and AST broadly indicating an improving metabolicprofile.

No serious adverse events were noted in this study.

7.2 Efficacy Analysis

7.2.1 Changes in Efficacy Variables from Baseline to End of Study(Per-Protocol Analysis)

Tables 5-13 and FIGS. 1 and 2 (graphs plotted for Primary efficacyvariables of fat mass and body weight only) summarize the change inefficacy variables from baseline to end of study (week 12) for eachproduct group. Baseline is defined as the average of available valuesfrom the screening and/or randomization visit (prior to dispensation ofstudy product).

Variables are summarized in the format:

Mean± Standard Deviation

Referring to Tables 5-13, the p-values at the row titled ‘significance(Baseline-12^(th) week)’ of each table indicates whether that productgroup had a significant average change from baseline—this was calculatedusing the paired student t test with Bonferroni correction. The p-valuesin the last column of the table with the heading ‘Significancecomparisons’ indicates whether the amount of change was significantlydifferent between the active and placebo groups calculated by ANCOVA(Pre values are the covariates and the significance is calculated on thedifference of post values). Nominally significant p-values (p<0.05) arehighlighted in bold text. The significance data between active groupsand the placebo group is indicated in the row titled ‘Significance ofActive Group compared with Placebo’. For the lipid profile tablenon-identical superscripts are significant at p<0.05, identicalsuperscripts are not significant using the Student t test withBonferroni correction.

The estimate of effect size was computed using the partial Eta squaremethod for all groups for all primary efficacy variables and selectedsecondary efficacy variables. The effect size for each group isindicated in the row titled ‘Estimate of Effect’ for each respectivetable.

The graphs represent the change in means in all three groups from thebaseline to the end of study. The standard deviations were calculatedfor all the means displayed here, and the standard deviation bars aredisplayed on the graphs.

This summary is based on the per-protocol population, consisting of allsubjects who kept all scheduled visits and who were at least 75% productcompliant over the 12-week course of the study. A per-protocol analysisaddresses the scientific question of whether the product works in thosepeople who use it as directed. Subjects who do not take the product asdirected, or who drop out of the protocol, have not really given theproduct a “fair chance” of working. Evaluating whether the product isefficacious, a per-protocol analysis therefore looks only at data fromthose subjects who were compliant with the protocol.

Changes in Efficacy Variables (Per-Protocol Population)

Primary Efficacy Variables

TABLE 5 Fat Mass (see related FIG. 1.) Fat mass in gms Active formulaActive HCA Placebo Study period (n = 30) (n = 32) (n = 29) Baseline32810.37 ± 7024.79 30942.46 ± 5916.88 33399.41 ± 8457.21 End of 12^(th)week 31107.42 ± 7068.24 30245.18 ± 6188.14 33697.18 ± 8437.30 Differencein Fat mass loss 1702.95 697.28 −297.77 (grams) Significance p < 0.001 p< 0.01 p = 0.293 (Baseline-12^(th) week) Significance of Active p <0.001 p = 0.011 — Group compared with Placebo by ANCOVA Estimate ofEffect 67.7% 19.6% 3.9%

TABLE 6 Body Weight (see related FIG. 2.) Body Weight in kg Activeformula Active HCA Placebo Study period (n = 30) (n = 32) (n = 29)Baseline 84.20 ± 11.64 83.07 ± 10.92 87.63 ± 12.14 End of 12^(th) week78.99 ± 11.95 80.65 ± 10.80 87.98 ± 12.26 Difference in weight 5.21 2.42−0.35 loss (kg) Significance p < 0.001 p < 0.001 p = 0.222(Baseline-12^(th) week) Significance of Active p < 0.001 p < 0.001 —Group compared with Placebo Estimate of Effect 76.1% 53.2% 4.5%Secondary Efficacy Variables

TABLE 7 Lean Mass Lean mass in gms Active formula Active HCA PlaceboStudy period (n = 30) (n = 32) (n = 29) Baseline 46388.46 ± 9334.9847389.06 ± 10755.03 49707.05 ± 8748.72 End of 12^(th) week 45668.29 ±9255.95 46769.06 ± 10049.42 49077.05 ± 8446.49 Difference in Lean 720.17620 630.00 mass loss (grams) Significance p = 0.075 p = 0.044 p = 0.087(Baseline-12^(th) week) Significance of p = 0.651 p = 0.729 — ActiveGroup compared with Placebo

TABLE 8 Bone Density Bone Density in gms Active formula Active HCAPlacebo Study period (n = 30) (n = 32) (n = 29) Baseline 1.144 ± 0.1021.154 ± 0.119 1.205 ± 0.143 End of 12^(th) week 1.154 ± 0.087 1.151 ±0.111 1.203 ± 0.131 Difference in Bone −0.01 0.003 0.002 Density (gms)Significance p = 0.549 p = 0.487 p = 0.747 (Baseline-12^(th) week)Significance of p = 0.692 p = 0.377 — Active Group compared with Placebo

TABLE 9 Abdominal Girth Abdominal girth in cms Active Active formula HCAPlacebo Study period (n = 30) (n = 32) (n = 29) Baseline 98.90 ± 13.4099.28 ± 12.17 100.50 ± 13.39  At 12 weeks 94.50 ± 13.07 95.73 ± 11.6199.78 ± 13.67 Difference in Girth 4.40 3.55 0.72 change (cm) at 12 weeksSignificance p < 0.001 p < 0.001 p = 0.529 (Baseline-12^(th) week)Significance of p < 0.001 p = 0.002 — Active Group compared with PlaceboEstimate of Effect 42.7% 38.4% 3%

TABLE 10 Lipid Profile Active formula Active HCA Placebo LipidParameters (n = 30) (n = 32) (n = 29) Total cholesterol Baseline 181.97± 25.64^(a) 172.00 ± 29.52^(a) 183.93 ± 30.68^(a) At 12 weeks 185.43 ±25.69^(a) 182.35 ± 27.32^(b) 192.79 ± 31.81^(a) Triglycerides Baseline155.30 ± 40.42^(a) 155.25 ± 45.19^(a) 164.41 ± 62.39^(a) At 12 weeks157.90 ± 52.02^(a) 150.87 ± 51.21^(a) 164.21 ± 83.83^(a) LDL Baseline112.33 ± 18.87^(a) 103.94 ± 25.71^(a) 113.07 ± 26.77^(a) At 12 weeks114.17 ± 20.95^(a) 115.39 ± 25.95^(b) 122.14 ± 27.62^(a) VLDL Baseline30.78 ± 8.03^(a) 30.95 ± 9.05^(a)  32.71 ± 12.47^(a) At 12 weeks  38.30± 10.40^(a)  30.33 ± 10.16^(a)  32.52 ± 15.89^(a) HDL Baseline 38.30 ±7.06^(a) 35.93 ± 8.14^(a) 37.83 ± 6.16^(a) At 12 weeks 38.37 ± 7.34^(a)36.45 ± 7.25^(a) 36.59 ± 6.14^(a)

TABLE 11 HOMA-IR HOMA-IR Active formula Active HCA Placebo Study period(n = 30) (n = 32) (n = 29) Baseline 4.22 ± 2.33 4.15 ± 2.37 4.26 ± 3.03End of 12^(th) week 4.71 ± 2.79 4.18 ± 2.59 5.85 ± 3.60 Difference in1.68 0.16 1.59 HOMA-IR Significance p = 0.238 p = 0.951 p = 0.009(Baseline-12^(th) week) Significance of p = 0.107 p = 0.030 — ActiveGroup compared with Placebo

TABLE 12 Appetite Test Appetite Test (VAS) Active formula Active HCAPlacebo Study period (n = 30) (n = 32) (n = 29) Baseline 7.47 ± 3.878.58 ± 3.83 8.94 ± 3.98 End of 12^(th) week 5.87 ± 2.37 6.69 ± 3.63 7.90± 4.19 Difference in 1.6 1.51 1.04 Appetite test (VAS) Significance p <0.001 p < 0.001 p = 0.077 (Baseline-12^(th) week) Significance of p =0.080 p = 0.301 Active Group compared with Placebo

TABLE 13 Quality of Life (Total Score) Quality of Life (total score)Active formula Active HCA Placebo Study Period (n = 30) (n = 32) (n =29) Initial 34.50 ± 16.94 35.22 ± 25.55 32.41 ± 22.86 At the End of12^(th) 28.43 ± 12.88 29.88 ± 27.01 28.33 ± 21.65 week Difference in6.07 5.34 4.08 Quality of Life (Total score) Significance p = 0.043 p =0.051 p = 0.116 (Baseline-12^(th) week) Significance of p = 0.684 p =0.808 — Active Group compared with Placebo

When examining the baseline data it was found that the groups whencompared with each other did not show any significant differences ascalculated by ANOVA. At the end of the study the tables were analyzedagain using ANCOVA to see if there were any differences from thebaseline for all three groups. The data from this analysis is displayedbelow:

-   -   a. Fat Mass—F=15.309 and p<0.001    -   b. Body Weight—F=118.03 and p<0.001

Thus, it can be concluded that there were significant changes in theprimary efficacy variables between all three groups from baseline to theend of study.

On analyzing the variables in each group it was found that four of theprimary efficacy variables underwent statistically significant changesfrom baseline to end of study:

-   -   a. 1702.95 gms decrease in fat mass in Active formula group    -   b. 697.28 gms decrease in fat mass in Active HCA group    -   c. 5.21 kg or 6.18% decrease in body weight in Active formula        group    -   d. 2.42 kg or 2.91% decrease in body weight in Active HCA group

The active formula group as well as the active HCA group showed asignificant reduction in fat mass and body weight when compared with theplacebo group.

The placebo group showed slight but statistically insignificantincreases in fat mass and body weight.

Looking at the estimate of effect analysis for fat mass it was foundthat the active formula had the best reliability factor (67.7%) followedby the active HCA (19.6%) and placebo (3.9%). Thus it can be concludedthat the active formula has a higher chance for inducing fat mass lossthan the active HCA and placebo. It can also be concluded that theactive HCA has a higher chance for inducing fat mass loss than theplacebo.

Similarly, looking at the estimate of effect analysis for body weight itwas found that the active formula had the best reliability factor(76.1%) followed by the active HCA (53.2%) and placebo (4.5%). Thus itcan be concluded that the active formula has a higher chance forinducing weight loss than the active HCA and placebo. It can also beconcluded that the Active HCA has a higher chance for inducing weightloss than the placebo.

Further analysis was carried out on the body weight variable as data wascollected at 2 week intervals and not only at the baseline and end ofstudy. This was also tabulated and represented in table 13 below. It wasfound that the change in body weight was linear for the active formulaand active HCA groups while it was non-linear for the placebo group ascalculated by Repeated Measures ANOVA.

When examining the baseline data it was found that the groups whencompared with each other did not show any significant differences ascalculated by ANOVA. At the end of the study the tables were analyzedagain using ANCOVA to see if there were any differences from thebaseline for all three groups (as the lipid profile variables did notshow changes of clinical significance the ANCOVA analysis was not donefor these variables). The data from this analysis is displayed below:

-   -   a. Lean Mass—F=0.176 and p=0.839    -   b. Body Density—F=0.632 and p=0.534    -   c. Abdominal Girth—F=8.574 and p<0.001    -   d. HOMA-IR—F=3.23 and p=0.049    -   e. Appetite test—F=1.089 and p=0.19    -   f. Quality of Life Questionnaire—F=0.097 and p=0.908

Thus, it can be concluded that there was a significant change in theabdominal girth and the HOMA-IR variables between all three groups frombaseline to the end of study. None of the other secondary efficacyvariables showed any significance between all three groups from baselineto the end of the study.

On analyzing the variables in each group it was found that nine of thesecondary efficacy variables underwent statistically significant changesfrom baseline to end of study:

-   -   a. 620 gms decrease in Lean Mass in Active HCA Group    -   b. 4.40 cms decrease in abdominal girth in Active formula group    -   c. 3.55 cms decrease in abdominal girth in Active HCA group    -   d. 10.35 mg/dL increase in total cholesterol in Active HCA group    -   e. 11.45 mg/dL increase in LDL in Active HCA group    -   f. 1.59 increase in HOMA-IR in placebo group    -   g. 1.6 unit decrease in the appetite test (VAS) in the Active        formula group    -   h. 1.89 unit decrease in the appetite test (VAS) in the Active        HCA group    -   i. 6.07 unit decrease in the Quality of Life Questionnaire in        Active formula group

The active Formula group showed a significant reduction in abdominalgirth when compared with the placebo group.

Even though there was a significant decrease in the Quality of Lifescore (indicative of a better quality of life) and the Appetite testscore (indicative of a reduced appetite) for the active formula group,when compared with placebo group this change was not significant.

The active HCA group showed a significant decrease in lean mass andappetite test score (Indicative of a reduced appetite), however whencompared with the placebo group the changes were not significant.

The active HCA group also showed a significant reduction in abdominalgirth when compared with the placebo group.

Finally, the active HCA group also showed an increase in TotalCholesterol and LDL. These changes observed were not clinicallysignificant as the mean values for the Total Cholesterol and LDL arewithin the NCEP ATP III [National Cholesterol Education Program ExpertPanel on Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment of High Blood Cholesterolin Adults (Adult Treatment Panel III), NIH Publication No. 02-5215,September 2002] guidelines for all three groups at the end of the studyand furthermore, the comparison between these variables and thecorresponding placebo variables were not statistically significant.

Even though the active HCA group did not show a significant change inHOMA-IR when compared with placebo there was a significant change. Theactive HCA has shown a relatively smaller increase in HOMA-IR (Increaseof 0.03) than the placebo (Increase of 1.59), thus it can be concludedthere is a possibility that the active HCA may arrest increases inHOMA-IR.

Looking at the estimate of effect analysis for abdominal girth it wasfound that the active formula had the best reliability factor (42.7%)followed by the active HCA (38.4%) and placebo (3%). Thus it can beconcluded that the active formula has a higher chance for inducing adecrease in abdominal girth than the active HCA and placebo. It can alsobe concluded that the active HCA has a higher chance for inducing adecrease in abdominal girth than the placebo.

Further analysis was carried out on the abdominal girth variable as datawas collected at 2 week intervals and not only at the baseline and endof study. This was also tabulated and represented in Table 15 below. Itwas found that the change in abdominal girth was linear for the activeformula and active HCA groups while it was non-linear for the placebogroup as calculated by Repeated measures ANOVA.

7.2.2 Time-Course of Selected Efficacy Variables and Derived EfficacyVariables (Per-Protocol Population)

Tables 14-16 and related FIGS. 3-5 display the visit-by-visit values ofthose efficacy variables that were collected at baseline (screeningand/or randomization), two week intervals and end of the study. Thechange in Body Mass Index (BMI) was derived from the body weight andheight data and the results are shown in Table 16 with inference andgraph shown in FIG. 5.

Such tables and graphs are meaningful only for subjects who had valuesat all of theses time points, and were therefore based on theper-protocol population.

TABLE 14 Change in Weight from Baseline to End of Study at Each Two-WeekInterval for All Three Groups (see related FIG. 3.) Weight in kg Activeformula Active HCA Placebo Study period (n = 30) (n = 32) (n = 29)Baseline 84.20 ± 11.64 83.07 ± 10.92 87.63 ± 12.14 At 2 weeks 82.86 ±11.86 82.44 ± 10.78 87.64 ± 12.59 At 4 weeks 82.19 ± 11.94 81.88 ± 10.6787.82 ± 12.56 At 6 weeks 81.64 ± 11.79 81.61 ± 11.07 87.41 ± 12.32 At 8weeks 80.89 ± 12.03 81.28 ± 11.19 87.26 ± 12.47 At 10 weeks 80.08 ±12.09 81.32 ± 11.16 87.26 ± 12.75 At 12 weeks 78.99 ± 11.95 80.65 ±10.80 87.98 ± 12.26 Difference in weight 5.21 2.42 −0.35 loss (kg) at 12weeks

TABLE 15 Change in Girth from Baseline to End of Study at Each Two-WeekInterval for All Three Groups (see related FIG. 4.) Abdominal girth incms Active formula Active HCA Placebo Study Period (n = 30) (n = 32) (n= 29) Baseline 98.90 ± 13.40 99.28 ± 12.17 100.50 ± 13.39  At 2 weeks97.81 ± 12.79 98.44 ± 12.15 98.29 ± 13.65 At 4 weeks 97.07 ± 13.38 97.52± 11.87 99.19 ± 12.69 At 6 weeks 96.55 ± 13.38 96.82 ± 11.55 98.65 ±13.45 At 8 weeks 96.10 ± 13.37 96.34 ± 11.48 99.16 ± 13.75 At 10 weeks95.45 ± 13.41  96.26 ± 111.46 98.88 ± 14.07 At 12 weeks 94.50 ± 13.0795.73 ± 11.61 99.78 ± 13.67 Difference in 4.40 3.55 0.72 Girth change(cm) at 12 weeks

TABLE 16 Change in BMI from Baseline to End of Study at Each 2 WeekInterval for All Three Groups (see related FIG. 5.) BMI in kg/m² Activeformula Active HCA Placebo Study Period (n = 30) (n = 32) (n = 29)Baseline 32.99 ± 2.68 32.77 ± 2.83 33.36 ± 3.72 At 2 weeks 32.44 ± 2.6732.55 ± 2.87 33.24 ± 3.77 At 4 weeks 32.19 ± 2.78 32.33 ± 2.84 33.30 ±3.74 At 6 weeks 31.98 ± 2.78 32.22 ± 2.89 33.14 ± 3.64 At 8 weeks 31.78± 2.73 32.09 ± 2.98 33.17 ± 3.79 At 10 weeks 31.47 ± 2.83 32.11 ± 2.9233.09 ± 3.79 At 12 weeks 30.96 ± 2.79 31.89 ± 2.92 33.49 ± 3.72Difference in BMI 2.06 0.88 −0.13 change (kg) at 12 weeks Significance p< 0.001 p < 0.001 p = 0.216 (Baseline-12^(th) week) Estimate of Effect65.3% 48.5% 4.8%Interpretation for BMI

The active formula showed a significant drop in BMI of 2.06 kg/m². Theactive HCA showed a significant drop in BMI of 0.88 kg/m² and theplacebo showed a slight but insignificant increase in BMI. The activeformula and active HCA showed a significant change from baseline whencompared with placebo as calculated by ANCOVA.

Looking at the estimate of effect analysis for BMI it was found that theActive formula had the best reliability factor (65.3%) followed by theActive HCA (48.5%) and placebo (4.8%). Thus it can be concluded that theActive formula has a higher chance for inducing a decrease in BMI thanthe Active HCA and placebo. It can also be concluded that the Active HCAhas a higher chance for inducing a decrease in BMI than the placebo.

Further analysis was carried out on the BMI variable as data wascollected at 2 week intervals and not only at the baseline and end ofstudy. It was found that the change in BMI was linear for the activeformula and active HCA groups while it was non-linear for the placebogroup as calculated by Repeated measures ANOVA.

7.2.3 Efficacy Conclusions

It was found that the significant reduction in body fat and significantbody weight loss of 6.18% by the active formula group met the primaryefficacy objectives of the study.

On analyzing the efficacy data for the active HCA it was found that bodyfat reduced significantly thus meeting a primary efficacy objective.Though body weight reduced significantly, the reduction of only 2.91%was not enough to meet the primary efficacy objective of a 5% bodyweight reduction.

In addition, the active formula group and active HCA groups also showeda significant reduction in abdominal girth which was listed as asecondary efficacy objective.

Furthermore, the both active groups also showed a decrease in diastolicblood pressure and AST broadly indicating an improving metabolicprofile.

7.3 Study Population and Baseline

7.3.1 Disposition of Subjects and Analytical Populations

Out of 165 subjects who were screened, 49 were screen failures and 116were randomized into the study.

These 116 subjects were randomized into three groups, using arandomization schedule supplied by the sponsor, The disposition of thesesubjects is shown in Table 17.

TABLE 17 Disposition of Enrolled Subjects Status of subjects Activeformula Active HCA Placebo Total Lost to follow up  1 (2.56%) —  3(7.89%)  4 (3.45%) Early Terminate, due to — — — — Adverse Event(s)Early Terminate, for Other  8 (20.51%)  7 (17.95%)  6 (15.78%)  21(18.1%) Reasons Completed Study 30 (76.92%) 32 (82.05%) 29 (76.32%)  91(78.4%) Total 39 (100.0%) 39 (100.0%) 38 (100.0%) 116 (100.0%) p Valueχ² = 3.216, p = 0.522

While the active HCA group had less non-completers than the placebogroup (7 vs 9, respectively), these differences are not statisticallysignificant. The Active formula had the same number of non-completers asthe placebo group (9 vs 9).

The per-protocol population consists of 91 subjects (78.4%) who wererandomized into three arms (30-Active formula Vs 32-Active HCA Vs29-Placebo)

7.3.2 Baseline and Demographic Characteristics of the Subjects

As a check on the even randomization of subjects, the demographic,safety and efficacy variables were compared between the Active formula,Active HCA and placebo groups. Table 18 summarizes the characteristicsof the subjects at baseline (defined as the average of the values at thescreening and randomization visits).

Numeric variables are summarized in the format:

-   -   Mean± Standard Deviation    -   Median (Minimum-Maximum)

Categorical variables are shown as counts and percentages of totalwithin product group. P-values in the last column of the table indicatedwhether there is a significant difference between the active and placebogroups as calculated by ANOVA. Nominally significant p-values (p<0.05)are highlighted in bold text.

TABLE 18 Baseline and Demographic Characteristics of Subjects (CompletedSubjects) Active formula Active HCA Placebo Variable (n = 30) (n = 32)(n = 29) p-value Demographic Variables Age in years 36.73 ± 8.34 37.59 ±7.92 34.66 ± 8.41 0.321 37 (19-55) (38 (20-50) 33 (20-58) Gender Female8 (26.6%) 10 (31.3%) 13 (44.8%) 0.310 Male 22 (73.3%) 22 (68.7%) 16(55.2%) Ethnicity White — — — — Black — — — — Asian 30 (100.0%) 32(100.0%) 29 (100.0%) — American — — — — Indian Others — — — Exercise atwork Sedentary 7 (23.3%) 6 (18.8%) 10 (34.5%) Light 18 (60.0%) 14 (43.8%10 (34.5%) 0.272 Moderate 5 (16.7%) 10 (31.3%) 9 (31.0%) — Heavy — 2(6.3%) — Physical Examination and Vital Signs Height (m) 1.59 ± 0.091.59 ± 0.08 1.62 ± 0.08 0.303 1.58 (1.46-1.80) 1.60 (1.45-1.75) 1.63(1.48-1.78) BMI 32.88 ± 2.73 32.77 ± 2.83 33.23 ± 3.81 0.157 (Kg/m²)32.39 (28.5-8.75) 32.93 (27.7-38.8) 32.9 (28.02-38.65) HR 79.10 ± 9.2779.09 ± 10.68 80.28 ± 8.34 0.860 (beats/min) 76 (66-104) 78 (59-100) 80(66-100) Systolic BP 123.87 ± 13.77 122.19 ± 12.63 123.26 ± 11.81 0.871mm Hg 120 (95-154) 120 (104-160) 120 (106-160) Diastolic BP 83.63 ± 8.8783.00 ± 9.91 80.34 ± 9.29 0.365 mm Hg 80 (69-100) 80 (60-100) 80(65-100) ECG Normal 30 (100%) 32 (100%) 29 (100%) Abnormal — — — Safetylaboratory values Hematocrit 39.71 ± 3.69 39.24 ± 3.71 40.45 ± 3.640.442 38 (34.1-47.2) 39.2 (31.5-46.6) 40 (34.50-51.30) Hemoglobin 13.07± 2.02 13.14 ± 1.74 13.80 ± 2.01 0.279 12.4 (10.7-17.1) 13.5 (9.9-16.8)13.8 (11.20-18.4) Na 141.07 ± 3.20 141.81 ± 2.78 140.21 ± 3.74 0.162 142(127-145) 142 (135-149) 140 (130-148) K 4.53 ± 0.38 4.51 ± 0.39 4.55 ±0.36 0.920 4.5 (3.8-5.3) 4.6 (3.70-5.30) 4.5 (4.0-5.40) Cl 105.30 ± 7.32105.72 ± 4.39 106.14 ± 4.43 0.845 101.5 (99-135) 105.5 (100-113) 107.0(98-113) Creatinine 0.87 ± 0.17 0.87 ± 0.19 0.89 ± 0.21 0.949 0.9(0.4-1.1) 0.9 (0.50-1.20) 0.9 (0.4-1.30) BUN 17.44 ± 5.22 17.48 ± 3.8718.34 ± 7.19 0.778 16.5 (6.28-32) 17.5 (9.30-26.0) 16 (10.0-36.0) Ca9.01 ± 0.35 9.25 ± 1.46 9.03 ± 0.49 0.460 9.1 (8.2-9.6) 9.1 (8.10-17.0)9.0 (8.10-10.00) AST 27.87 ± 10.69 27.41 ± 6.76 28.17 ± 6.98 0.936 27(12-69) 27 (17-40) 29 (12-43) ALT 31.42 ± 12.30 34.72 ± 12.14 42.07 ±17.16 0.016 28 (19-63) 32 (17-71) 38 (17-82) Alk Phos 95.63 ± 21.9195.41 ± 21.02 90.45 ± 19.03 0.555 101.5 (48-152) 100.0 (45-123) 96(52-122) Total 0.43 ± 0.32 0.36 ± 0.25 0.67 ± 0.65 0.018 Bilirubin 0.23(0.1-1.0) 0.21 (0.1-1.20) 0.6 (0.10-3.20) Uric acid 4.78 ± 0.91 4.62 ±1.06 5.10 ± 1.36 0.241 4.45 (3.8-7.3) 4.3 (3.3-7.6) 4.8 (1.8-8.3) TSH1.72 ± 1.33 2.18 ± 1.47 2.19 ± 1.24 0.299 1.60 (0.15-5.53) 1.78(0.3-6.4) 1.78 (0.3-5.2) Amylase 45.21 ± 13.17 45.31 ± 15.09 45.79 ±14.69 0.986 42 (30-81) 41.5 (30-89) 42 (23-87) WBC 8993.33 ± 1364.819034.38 ± 1580.45 8951.72 ± 1452.98 0.976 8900 (6800-13200) 8500(7000-13700) 8800 (5900-13100) Primary Efficacy Variables Weight 84.20 ±11.64 83.07 ± 10.92 87.63 ± 12.14 0.285 Kg 83.37 (68.8-106.9) 82.38(66.57-112.0) 85.46 (68.10-109.8) Fat Mass 32810.37 ± 7024.79 30942.46 ±5916.88 33399.41 ± 8457.21 0.376 In Gms 32364.5 (19908.0-46185.0)31180.35 (16682.5-42065.5) 33355.9 (17978.0-47647.30) Secondary EfficacyVariables Lean Mass 46388.46 ± 9334.98 47389.06 ± 10755.03 49707.05 ±8748.72 0.407 In Gms 43496.6 (33651.0-62982) 44565.5 (30390-69278.10)50189.40 (38870.0.67210.0) Bone 1.144 ± 0.102 1.154 ± 0.119 1.205 ±0.143 0.133 Density 1.15 (0.985-1.307) 1.17 (0.934-1.382) 1.18(0.956-1.597) Abdominal 98.90 ± 13.40 99.28 ± 12.17 100.50 ± 13.39 0.945girth 99.75 (72.5-130) 99.75 (81.0-127.0) 99.0 (75.50-129.0) Total181.97 ± 25.64 172.00 ± 29.52 183.93 ± 30.68 0.220 cholestrol 183(117-256) 177 (108-221) 183 (126-249) Triglycerides 155.30 ± 40.42155.25 ± 45.19 164.41 ± 62.39 0.719 145 (82-269) 146.5 (69-274) 143(59-319) LDL 112.33 ± 18.87 103.94 ± 25.71 113.07 ± 26.77 0.256 108.5(67-161) 106 (51-168) 109 (78-170) VLDL 30.78 ± 8.03 30.95 ± 9.05 32.71± 12.47 0.713 28.5 (16.4-53.8) 29.1 (13.80-54.80) 32.0 (11.80-63.80) HDL38.30 ± 7.06 35.93 ± 8.14 37.83 ± 6.16 0.395 41.5 (21-48) 40.0(15.0-44.0) 41.0 (26.0-46.0) Blood 83.90 ± 19.38 87.09 ± 8.22 87.72 ±10.51 0.909 Glucose 85.5 (70-124) 85.0 (70-106) 87.0 (70-113) Insulin19.47 ± 9.59 19.19 ± 10.53 19.86 ± 13.74 0.974 17.50 (6.8-45) 17.25(6.20-47.0) 15.70 (4.40-54.0) HOMA-IR 4.22 ± 2.21 4.15 ± 2.37 4.26 ±3.03 0.987 3.83 (1.39-10.98) 3.61 (1.25-11.11) 3.18 (1.00-13.04)Appetite 7.47 ± 3.87 8.20 ± 4.05 8.94 ± 3.98 0.370 (VAS-score) 7.10(1-12) 8.80 (0-12) 12.20 (1-12) Quality of 34.50 ± 16.94 35.22 ± 25.5532.41 ± 22.86 0.879 life score 36.0 (2-72) 35.0 (0-76) 35.0 (0-74)(Total)7.3.3 Interpretation

Since no product had been administered at either of the baselineevaluations, we would expect baseline subject characteristics to besimilar between groups, and this is generally what was found.

The only significant differences between product groups were slightlylower ALT and Total Bilirubin in the active groups compared to theplacebo Group (Active formula ALT 31.42 U/L and Total Bilirubin 0.43mg/dL, Active HCA ALT 34.72 U/L and Total Bilirubin 0.36 mg/dL, PlaceboALT 42.07 U/L and Total Bilirubin 0.67 mg/dL, p=0.016 and 0.018respectively). This difference may be due to random fluctuations—2differences would not be an unexpected occurrence in 41 significanttests.

Active groups had a lower body weight (Active Formula 84.20 kg, ActiveHCA 83.07 Kg and Placebo 87.63 Kg), but the difference was notstatistically significant (P=0.285).

7.4 Safety Analysis

7.4.1 Adverse Events

No serious adverse events were noted in this study.

Table 19 lists each of the adverse events reported during this study forcompleted subjects. Tables 20, 21, and 22 list the severity and probablerelationship to each group of each adverse event.

TABLE 19 Adverse Events Reported by Each Group for Completed SubjectsActive Active ADVERSE EVENTS formula HCA Placebo Total Constipation 1 1Headache earlier 1 1 Ankle and foot pain 1 1 Back pain 1 1 2 Boils onhis legs due to heat 1 1 Constipation 1 1 Dry cough, severe cold andnose 1 1 block Dryness of mouth 1 1 Fever for 2 days 1 1 Gastric problem1 1 Gastritis 1 1 Gastritis, back pain 1 1 Increased appetite 1 1Irregular periods 1 1 Irritation in the chest 1 1 Joint pain, gastritis1 1 Knee pain 1 1 Leg and back pain 1 1 Leg pain 1 1 2 Leg pain,giddiness 1 1 Loose motion 2 2 Loose motion and stomach upset 1 1 Neckpain 1 1 Palpitation 5-10 minutes every day in 1 1 the morning Skinirritation, asthma 1 1 Tiredness 1 1 2 Tiredness, headache, giddiness 22 Tiredness, tension, gastritis 1 1 Weakness 1 1

TABLE 20 Adverse Events, by Product Group - Active Formula Sl. No Sub NoEvent Description Severity Relationship 1 49 Leg and back pain MildUnrelated 2 6 Tiredness Mild Probable 3 13 Gastritis, back pain SevereCertain 4 39 Neck pain Moderate Unrelated 5 40 Skin irritation, asthmaSevere Unrelated 6 41 Back pain Moderate Probable 7 87 Palpitation 5-10minutes Mild Certain every day in the morning and constipation 8 97 Legpain Moderate Probable 9 111 Leg pain, giddiness Mild Probable

TABLE 21 Adverse Events, by Product Group - Active HCA Sl. No Sub NoEvent Description Severity Relationship 1 48 Irritation in the chestModerate Probable 2 50 Gastritis Moderate Probable 3 12 Fever for 2 daysModerate Unrelated 4 14 Loose motion Moderate Unrelated 5 16 Loosemotion Moderate Unrelated 6 42 Back pain Moderate Probable 7 47Tiredness, tension, gastritis Severe Probable 8 44 Dry cough, severecold and Severe Unrelated nose block 9 110 Constipation Severe Probable10 83 Increased appetite Moderate Probable

TABLE 22 Adverse Events, by Product Group - Placebo Sl. Sub No No EventDescription Severity Relationship 1 8 Weakens Moderate Unrelated 2 7Irregular periods Moderate Unrelated 3 37 Dryness of mouth ModerateProbable 4 46 Ankle and foot pain Severe Unrelated 5 86 Tiredness MildProbable 6 53 Knee pain Very Severe Probable 7 80 Joint pain, gastritisModerate Probable 8 89 Gastric problem Moderate Probable 9 98 Leg painModerate Probable 10 74 Constipation Moderate Probable 11 77 Tiredness,headache, giddiness Mild Probable 12 78 Tiredness, headache, giddinessMild Probable 13 75 Loose motion and stomach upset Moderate Probable 1476 Headache earlier Moderate Unrelated 15 85 Boils on his legs due toheat Severe Probable

A total of 34 adverse events were experienced by the subjects in the perprotocol population. Of this, the placebo group reported 15 adverseevents. The Active formula group reported 9 adverse events and theActive HCA group reported 10 adverse events. There was no significancebetween the three groups (p=0.193) nor was there significance whencomparing the Active formula group with placebo (p=0.089) and Active HCAwith placebo (p=0.179).

Even though there was no significant difference between the threegroups, a general trend was observed whereby the adverse events can begrouped into two main categories—joint pain and gastritis. However,these events appeared across all three groups and could not beattributed to any one group.

Adverse events were not responsible for any early terminations for anyof the subjects for any of the groups.

7.4.2 Safety Laboratory Values and Vital Signs

Tables 23, 24, 25, and 26 summarize the change in safety lab values frombaseline to end of study (week 12) for each product group. Baseline isdefined as the average of available values from the screening and/orrandomization visit (prior to dispensation of study product).

Variables are summarized in the format:

-   -   Mean± Standard Deviation

For the tables corresponding to Physical examination and vital signs thesignificance data is represented at the bottom most row of thetables—this has been calculated by repeated measures ANOVA. For thetables corresponding to safety lab values non-identical superscripts aresignificant at p<0.05, identical superscripts are not significant usingthe Student t test with Bonferroni correction.

This summary is based on the completed subjects.

TABLE 23 Hemodynamics (Pulse Rate) Active formula Active HCA PlaceboTime Period (n = 30) (n = 32) (n = 29) Baseline 79.10 ± 9.27 79.09 ±10.68 80.28 ± 8.35 At 2 weeks 77.27 ± 10.80 77.75 ± 10.06 78.76 ± 9.03At 4 weeks 77.37 ± 10.93 80.44 ± 8.36 79.32 ± 9.81 At 6 weeks 76.80 ±7.85 76.75 ± 7.91 77.52 ± 7.51 At 8 weeks 76.33 ± 8.21 76.28 ± 10.8977.75 ± 10.05 At 10 weeks 76.17 ± 8.29 76.78 ± 8.85 75.97 ± 8.66 At 12weeks 75.20 ± 7.22 74.06 ± 7.93 74.76 ± 6.25 Significance by p = 0.582 p= 0.031 p = 0.115 Repeated Measures ANOVA

TABLE 24 Hemodynamics (Systolic Blood Pressure) Active formula ActiveHCA Placebo Time Period (n = 30) (n = 32) (n = 29) Baseline 123.87 ±13.77 122.19 ± 12.64 123.28 ± 11.81 At 2 weeks 121.97 ± 10.89 122.56 ±10.56 122.38 ± 12.01 At 4 weeks 122.27 ± 11.41 121.13 ± 10.05 124.04 ±12.82 At 6 weeks 119.30 ± 12.15 118.63 ± 12.32 119.41 ± 11.66 At 8 weeks118.43 ± 11.05 118.66 ± 12.79 121.71 ± 9.06 At 10 weeks 118.80 ± 9.41118.56 ± 12.06 120.00 ± 11.51 At 12 weeks 122.53 ± 12.83 117.97 ± 9.23120.45 ± 12.05 Significance by p = 0.125 p = 0.302 p = 0.158 RepeatedMeasures ANOVA

TABLE 25 Hemodynamics (Diastolic Blood Pressure) Active formula ActiveHCA Placebo Time Period (n = 30) (n = 32) (n = 29) Baseline 83.63 ± 8.8683.00 ± 9.91 80.34 ± 9.29 At 2 weeks 78.73 ± 9.68 79.88 ± 7.62 80.28 ±10.94 At 4 weeks 83.13 ± 9.41 79.06 ± 9.19 81.79 ± 8.49 At 6 weeks 79.87± 9.83 79.22 ± 9.85 79.24 ± 9.25 At 8 weeks 78.00 ± 9.63 78.31 ± 10.1679.11 ± 8.49 At 10 weeks 78.27 ± 8.58 78.31 ± 10.16 78.41 ± 7.82 At 12weeks 79.63 ± 9.81 77.00 ± 6.85 78.41 ± 10.64 Significance by p = 0.012p = 0.016 p = 0.755 Repeated Measures ANOVA

TABLE 26 Safety Lab Values Active formula Active HCA PlaceboVariable/time period (n = 30) (n = 32) (n = 29) Hematocrit Baseline39.71 ± 3.69^(a)  39.24 ± 3.71^(a)  40.45 ± 3.64^(a)  At 12 weeks 40.88± 4.01^(b)  40.33 ± 3.60^(a)  41.84 ± 4.02^(a)  FBS Baseline 83.90 ±19.38^(a) 87.09 ± 8.22^(a)  87.72 ± 10.51^(a) At 12 weeks 86.27 ±7.79^(a)  83.94 ± 7.81^(a)  85.17 ± 8.22^(a)  Insulin Baseline 19.47 ±9.59^(a)  19.19 ± 10.53^(a) 19.86 ± 13.74^(a) At 12 weeks 21.73 ±12.31^(a) 21.07 ± 12.04^(a) 28.17 ± 17.99^(b) Bone Density Baseline1.144 ± 0.102^(a) 1.154 ± 0.119^(a) 1.205 ± 0.143^(a) At 12 weeks 1.154± 0.087^(a) 1.151 ± 0.111^(a) 1.203 ± 0.131^(a) HOMA-IR Baseline 4.22 ±2.21^(a) 4.15 ± 2.37^(a) 4.26 ± 3.03^(a) At 12 weeks 4.71 ± 2.79^(a)4.18 ± 2.59^(a) 5.85 ± 3.60^(b) Hemoglobin Baseline 13.07 ± 2.02^(a) 13.14 ± 1.74^(a)  13.80 ± 2.01^(a)  At 12 weeks 13.24 ± 1.94^(a)  13.09± 1.68^(a)  13.67 ± 2.01^(a)  WBC Baseline 8993.33 ± 1364.81^(a) 9034.38± 1580.45^(a) 8951.72 ± 1452.98^(a) At 12 weeks 8590.00 ± 1176.01^(a)8125.81 ± 855.17^(b)  8803.45 ± 1868.82^(a) Na Baseline 141.07 ±3.20^(a)  141.81 ± 2.78^(a)  140.21 ± 3.74^(a)  At 12 weeks 138.87 ±2.32^(b)  139.26 ± 2.76^(b)  140.00 ± 2.66^(a)  K Baseline 4.53 ±0.38^(a) 4.51 ± 0.39^(a) 4.55 ± 0.36^(a) At 12 weeks 4.48 ± 0.27^(a)4.43 ± 0.38^(a) 4.53 ± 0.35^(a) CI Baseline 105.30 ± 7.32^(a)  105.72 ±4.39^(a)  106.14 ± 4.43^(a)  At 12 weeks 104.53 ± 4.04^(a)  104.45 ±3.92^(a)  104.28 ± 3.37^(b)  Creatinine Baseline 0.87 ± 0.17^(a) 0.87 ±0.19^(a) 0.89 ± 0.21^(a) At 12 weeks 0.89 ± 0.16^(a) 0.84 ± 0.19^(a)0.93 ± 0.17^(a) BUN Baseline 17.44 ± 5.22^(a)  17.48 ± 3.87^(a)  18.34 ±7.19^(a)  At 12 weeks 16.73 ± 3.52^(a)  17.05 ± 4.16^(a)  16.14 ±4.49^(a)  AST Baseline 27.87 ± 10.69^(a) 27.41 ± 6.76^(a)  28.17 ±6.98^(a)  At 12 weeks 24.40 ± 6.45^(a)  23.29 ± 7.26^(b)  25.07 ±7.29^(a)  ALT Baseline 31.42 ± 12.30^(a) 34.72 ± 12.14^(a) 42.07 ±17.16^(a) At 12 weeks 30.71 ± 12.74^(a) 31.61 ± 11.29^(a) 39.00 ±17.41^(a) Alk Phos Baseline 95.63 ± 21.91^(a) 95.41 ± 21.02^(a) 90.45 ±19.03^(a) At 12 weeks 95.06 ± 16.94^(a) 93.58 ± 17.29^(a) 93.03 ±18.18^(a) Total Baseline 0.43 ± 0.32^(a) 0.36 ± 0.25^(a) 0.67 ± 0.65^(a)Bilirubin At 12 weeks 0.38 ± 0.30^(a) 0.34 ± 0.24^(a) 0.60 ± 0.47^(a)Uric Acid Baseline 4.78 ± 0.91^(a) 4.62 ± 1.06^(a) 5.10 ± 1.36^(a) At 12weeks 4.76 ± 1.11^(a) 4.56 ± 1.04^(a) 4.89 ± 1.40^(a) TSH Baseline 1.72± 1.33^(a) 2.18 ± 1.47^(a) 2.19 ± 1.24^(a) At 12 weeks 1.65 ± 0.83^(a)1.92 ± 0.76^(a) 1.94 ± 0.84^(a) Amalyse Baseline 45.21 ± 13.17^(a) 45.31± 15.09^(a) 45.79 ± 14.69^(a) At 12 weeks 43.72 ± 15.48^(a) 46.13 ±19.54^(a) 45.55 ± 16.22^(a)

Three of the physical examination variables underwent statisticallysignificant changes from baseline to end of study:

-   -   a. 3.9 beats/min decrease in pulse rate in active formula group    -   b. 4 mm Hg decrease in Diastolic Blood Pressure in active        Formula group    -   c. 6 mm Hg decrease in Diastolic Blood Pressure in active HCA        group

The change observed in the pulse rate was not clinically significant asthe mean values are within the normal range for all three groups at theend of the study. Even though there was a significant decrease in thepulse rate of the active HCA this can be attributed to randomfluctuations. From a safety perspective, there were no clinicallysignificant changes in the diastolic blood pressure in the activeformula group and the active HCA group.

Furthermore, the comparison between the above variables to thecorresponding placebo variables were not statistically significant.

Eight of the safety laboratory variables underwent statisticallysignificant changes from baseline to end of study:

-   -   a. 2.2 mEq/L decrease in Na in active formula group    -   b. 2.55 mEq/L decrease in Na in active HCA group    -   c. 1.86 mEq/L decrease m Cl in placebo group    -   d. 4.12 U/L decrease in AST in active HCA group    -   e. 1.17% increase in Hematocrit in active formula group    -   f. 8.31 μu/ml increase in Insulin in placebo group    -   g. 1.59 increase in HOMA-IR in placebo group    -   h. 908.57 thousands/μl decrease in WBC in Active HCA group

When comparing the above variables to the corresponding placebovariables it was found that there was no statistical significance forNa, Cl, Hematocrit, or AST. However, the active HCA group showed asignificant decrease in WBC.

From a safety perspective the changes observed were not clinicallysignificant as the mean values for the Na, Cl, AST and WBC are withinthe normal range for all three groups at the end of the study. Theincrease in Hemocrit in the active formula group can be attributed tointra-inter observer variability and therefore is also not clinicallysignificant from a safety perspective.

The increase in Insulin and the consequent increase in HOMA-IR in theplacebo group can be attributed to a few outliers in the placebo group.Three outliers have been identified and their details are as follows:

-   -   a. Subject No. 54 had a baseline Insulin value of 31 μu/ml and        an end of study insulin value of 66 μu/ml    -   b. Subject No. 89 had a baseline Insulin value of 14.2 μu/ml and        an end of study insulin value of 49.2 μu/ml    -   c. Subject No. 113 had a baseline Insulin value of 20 μu/ml and        an end of study insulin value of 46 μu/ml

If these outliers are dropped then the insulin and HOMA-IR increaseswill also become insignificant for the placebo group.

7.4.3 Safety Conclusions

Four safety values showed nominally significant average changes frombaseline to end of study in the active formula group (Decrease in Pulse,Diastolic blood pressure, Na, and an increase in Hematocrit).

Four safety values showed nominally significant average changes frombaseline to end of study in the active HCA group (Decrease in Diastolicblood pressure, AST, Na and WBC).

Three safety values showed nominally significant average changes frombaseline to end of study in the placebo group (increase in Insulin andHOMA-IR and a decrease in Cl).

There were no significant differences between the Active groups andplacebo for all variables except WBC. The Active HCA group did show adecrease in WBC as compared to placebo. However, this change was not ofa clinically important magnitude.

Generally, this study provided no reason for safety concerns.

7.4.4 Efficacy Analysis

In addition, the active formula group and active HCA groups also showeda significant reduction in abdominal girth which was listed as asecondary efficacy objective.

Furthermore, the both active groups also showed a decrease in diastolicblood pressure and AST broadly indicating an improving metabolicprofile.

7.5 Compliance

Compliance was analyzed from baseline to the end of study and for everytwo week period as well. Percentage compliance for the total and 2 weektime period (Baseline to end of study) was calculated in the followingmanner:

-   -   a. The number of pills returned was divided by the total pills        dispensed during the corresponding period.    -   b. The above number was then subtracted from the number 1 and        the resulting number was multiplied by 100.        Table 27 summarizes these compliance measures and compares them        between product groups. Numerical data is presented in the        format:    -   Mean± Standard Deviation

TABLE 27 Compliance (%) by Product (from Returned - Product Count)Active formula Active HCA Placebo Study period (n = 30) (n = 32) (n =29) Week 2 84.53 ± 17.71 84.11 ± 10.64 85.68 ± 16.45 Week 4 84.44 ±17.57 86.02 ± 8.27  88.36 ± 10.97 Week 6 79.39 ± 22.49 84.67 ± 11.9789.60 ± 10.92 Week 8 90.74 ± 7.34  88.88 ± 8.86  89.89 ± 9.71  Week 1087.22 ± 10.17 85.89 ± 16.99 94.06 ± 6.85  Week 12 90.16 ± 15.85 90.75 ±11.33 88.50 ± 21.04 Baseline to 86.08 ± 6.10  86.72 ± 5.88  89.35 ±7.60  end of study

All the three groups had a high level of compliance on a 2 week basis.This was also observed when considering the baseline to end-of-studytime period.

Overall, compliance was very good and adequate for the purposes of thisstudy.

7.6 Additional Information About the Study

This section describes the design of the study, the data managementmethods, the parameters studied, and the statistical methods used. Itpresents results in the form of summary tables and graphs withsignificance levels, effect size and interpretations.

7.6.1 Description of the Study Design

7.6.1.1 Purpose, Objective and Endpoints of the Study

The Purpose of this study is to test the Efficacy and Safety of twoexperimental Weight loss products as compared to placebo over a 12-weekperiod in healthy overweight and obese adults.

The Specific objectives and corresponding endpoints are summarized here.All effects that are defined as 12 week changes from baseline to end ofthe study. All Efficacy and Safety objectives involve comparing theactive supplements to placebo, with regard to each of the followingendpoints.

Primary Efficacy Endpoints

-   -   Reduced fat mass on the dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA)        scan between baseline and 12 week visit and loss of 5% or more        of body weight at 12 weeks

Secondary Efficacy Endpoints

-   -   Improved body composition, increase lean mass and improved bone        density measured by dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scan    -   Reduced abdominal girth    -   Improved lipid Profiles    -   Reduced Insulin resistance calculated by the HOMA-IR method.    -   Ability to maintain a weight loss diet and/or diminished        appetite    -   Improved quality of Life based on a Quality of life        questionnaire (QLQ)

Primary Safety Endpoints

-   -   Physical Examination (HR, SBP, DBP)    -   Safety laboratory values (Complete Blood count (CBC), BUN,        electrolytes, glucose, creatinine, calcium, AST, ALT, Alkaline        Phosphatase, total bilirubin, uric acid, urine analysis,        cholesterol, triglycerides, TSH, IIbA1c, pregnancy test        (females), amylase)

Secondary Safety Parameters

-   -   Adverse Events        7.6.1.2 Structure of the Study

This is a three-group, prospective, parallel, randomized, double blindplacebo-controlled clinical trial.

7.6.1.3 Description of the Study

The study enrolled healthy adult males and females in the age group 18to 60 years, who had BMI values between 28 and 40 kg/m².

All the subjects were pre-screened at site visits; Potential candidateswere called in for a screening and baseline evaluation after obtaininginformed consent. Acceptable subjects were enrolled and randomized forthe three arms (1:1:1 ratio) to receive active formula, active HCA orplacebo for 12 weeks. As per the protocol, efficacy and safetyevaluations were performed at baseline, week 2, week 4, week 6, week 8,week 10 and week 12.

The respective IRB/Ethics committees of the centres where the study wascarried out approved this study: 1. St. Johns Medical College Hospital,Bangalore, India, and 2. M. S. Ramiah Medical College Hospital,Bangalore, India.

7.6.1.4 Testing Protocol

Table 28 summarizes the activities performed at each visit of the study.A complete description of each visit's activities is provided in theprotocol.

TABLE 28 Activities Performed at Each Visit Screening Baseline Week WeekWeek Week Week Week Week −1 Week 0 +2 +4 +6 +8 +10 +12 Consent xDemographics x Exclusion/Inclusion x x History/concomitant medication xPhysical Exam x x EKG x x Dietician instructions x Weight, girth, BMI,BP, pulse (BMI) x x x x x x x DEXA x x Routine lab¹ x x Lipid profile xx Insulin/glucose x x Appetite/satiety VAS x x Quality of life (QOL) x xExcersice level x x x x x x x Diary review/compliance x x x x x xAdverse events/concomitant x x x x x x medications Pill Counts x x x x xx Dispense study compound x x x x x x Visits after the screening visitwill have a window of +/− 7 days ¹Complete Blood count (CBC), BUN,electrolytes, glucose, creatinine, calcium, AST, ALT, AlkalinePhosphatase, total bilirubin, uric acid, urine analysis, cholesterol,triglycerides, TSH, HbAlc, pregnancy test (females), amylase.7.6.2 Data Management Methods

All data elements recorded during the study period were entered andvalidated by K. P. Suresh (Statistician) in Microsoft Excel. Definitionsof the data elements entered are shown in Table 29. The randomizationkey was transmitted electronically by the vendor to the statistician andeach subject's supplement product group assignment was transferredelectronically into the data spreadsheet on the basis of the subjects'randomization numbers.

Body mass index was calculated from height and weight. All variables andchanges were transferred into the SPSS, SYSTAT statistical software,summarized (Counts, Minimum, Maximum, Mean, Median, Standard Deviation)within each treatment group, transferred to the statistical report andthen reformatted. Suitable graphs were generated to depict the changesin key efficacy parameters and then transferred to the statisticalreport.

7.6.3 Data Elements, Efficacy and Safety Parameters

TABLE 29 Data Elements Data Elements Definition Initial Subject InitialCode Assigned Randomization number Visit Which visit the data wascollected, per protocol Gender Male or Female Age Age in years RaceWhich Ethnicity the subject circled on the demographics or other relatedsheet Height Height in meters Weight Weight in kilograms BMI Weight inKilograms/Height in Meters squared Body fat Total body fat as measuredby DEXA in gms Lean Mass Total body lean mass as measured by DEXA in gmsCholesterol Total Cholesterol mg/dL Triglycerides Total Triglyceridesmg/dL LDL Low Density Lipoprotein mg/dL VLDL Very Low DensityLipoprotein mg/dL HDL High Density Lipoprotein mg/dL Glucose FastingBlood sugar mg/dL Insulin Fasting Insulin μu/ml Hemocrit Hemocrit level% Hemoglobin Hemoglobin level g/dL White Cell Count White Blood CellsCount thousands/micro litre Creatinine Creatinine level mg/dL BUN BloodUrea Nitrogen mg/dL Na Fasting Sodium —electrolyte value, mEq/L KFasting Potassium electrolyte value, mEq/L Cl Fasting Chlorideelectrolyte value, mEq/L Ca Fasting Calcium, mg/dL AST Aspartate AminoTransaminase, U/L ALT Alanine Amino Transferase, U/L Alk Phos AlkalinePhosphatase, U/L Total Bilirubin Fasting Total Bilirubin, mg/dL UricAcid Fasting Uric Acid, mg/dL TSH Thyroid Stimulating Hormone, μlu/mlAmylase Fasting Amylase, U/L Kcal Food intake at appetite test, KcalsAppetite Measured on visual analogue scale. 0-12.2 Blood PressureSystolic/Diastolic blood pressure, mm Hg Pulse Resting pulse, beats/minQOL Weight Loss quality of life questionnaire Symptom Measure Weightrelated Symptom Measure Compliance % Compliance with taking assignedproduct7.6.4 Statistical Methods7.6.4.1 Definition of Study Population

The per protocol population is defined as all enrolled subjects whocompleted all scheduled visits and an overall product compliance rate ofat least 75%. Safety and efficacy analysis was performed on thispopulation,

7.6.4.2 Descriptive Statistics

Descriptive statistics for each numerical variable was summarized as themean and standard deviations for all the subjects at each time intervalin each study group.

7.6.4.3 Changes over Time

One-way Repeated Measures ANOVA assessed changes over time from baselineto each subsequent visit within each product group.

Pair wise significance with Bonferroni Correction assessed changes overtwo points (baseline to end of study) for each study group,

Treatment Effects were assessed by comparing the week-12 parametersbetween Active products and Placebo keeping the baseline values ascovariates by the Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA).

7.6.4.4 Adverse Events

All the adverse events/complications were recorded for every visit foreach product and the obtained frequencies were tabulated and tested forsignificance with Placebo by Chi-square/Fisher Exact Test.

7.6.4.5 Control of Type-1 Error

All statistical tests were conducted at the 0.05 alpha level, meaningthat P≦0.05 was considered “nominally significant”. The Adjustment formultiple tests was made by applying Bonferroni correction to thep-values. The p-value for the comparison of the primary efficacyendpoints between active and placebo group was considered to beconclusive.

7.6.4.6 Software

The Statistical software namely SPSS 11.0 and Systat 8.0 were used forthe analysis of the data and Microsoft word and Excel were used togenerate graphs and tables.

The specification, examples and data provide a complete description ofthe manufacture and use of the composition of the invention. Since manyembodiments of the invention can be made without departing from thespirit and scope of the invention, the invention resides in the claimshereinafter appended.

All publications and patent applications cited in this specification areindicative of the level of ordinary skill in the art to which thisinvention pertains and are incorporated herein by reference in theirentireties.

The various embodiments described above are provided by way ofillustration only and should not be construed to limit the invention.Those skilled in the art will readily recognize various modificationsand changes that may be made to the present invention without followingthe example embodiments and applications illustrated and describedherein, and without departing from the true spirit and scope of thepresent invention without following the example embodiments andapplications illustrated and described herein, and without departingfrom the true spirit and scope of the present invention, which is setforth in the following claims.

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1. An oral herbal composition consisting essentially of Garciniaextract, green tea extract, green coffee extract, banaba extract and acomestible excipient, wherein the Garcinia extract is a complex metalsalt of (−) hydroxycitric acid, wherein the green tea extract consistsessentially of catechin polyphenols, caffeine and L-theanine, whereinthe green coffee extract consists essentially of chlorogenic acids andcaffeine, and wherein the banaba extract consists essentially ofcorosolic acid.
 2. The herbal composition of claim 1, wherein thecomplex metal salt of Garcinia contains greater than 60% (−)hydroxycitric acid.
 3. The herbal composition of claim 1, wherein thecomplex metal salt of Garcinia comprises one or more salts of (−)hydroxycitric acid in which at least one of the salts is selected fromcalcium, magnesium, potassium and zinc salts.
 4. The herbal compositionof claim 3, wherein the complex metal salt comprises calcium and thecontent of calcium is 20 to 80 mg per gram of complex metal salt.
 5. Theherbal composition of claim 3, wherein the complex metal salt comprisesmagnesium and the content of magnesium is 60 to 100 mg per gram ofcomplex metal salt.
 6. The herbal composition of claim 3, wherein thecomplex metal salt comprises potassium and the content of potassium is20 to 100 mg per gram of complex metal salt.
 7. The herbal compositionof claim 3, wherein the complex metal salt comprises zinc and thecontent of zinc is 2 to 6 mg per gram of complex metal salt.
 8. Theherbal composition of claim 3, wherein the complex metal salt ofGarcinia comprises the calcium, magnesium, potassium and zinc salts of(−)hydroxycitric acid.
 9. The herbal composition of claim 1, comprising975 mg of Garcinia extract.
 10. The herbal composition of claim 1,comprising 150 mg of green tea extract.
 11. The herbal composition ofclaim 1, comprising 112 mg of green coffee extract.
 12. The herbalcomposition of claim 1, comprising 37 mg of banaba extract.
 13. Theherbal composition of claim 1, wherein the excipient is selected fromthe group consisting of a starch, pre-gelatinized starch, dicalciumphosphate, polyvinyl povidine, magnesium stearate, talc, isopropylalcohol, carboxymethyl cellulose, hydroxymethylcellulose, ethylcellulose, isopropyl alcohol and mixtures thereof.
 14. The herbalcomposition of claim 13, further comprising a preservative.
 15. Theherbal composition of claim 14, wherein the preservative is selectedfrom the group consisting of propylparaben, methylparaben,2-bromo-2-nitropropane-1,3-diol, salts thereof, and mixtures thereof.16. The herbal composition of claim 13, which is selected from the groupconsisting of a pill, a tablet, and a capsule.
 17. The herbalcomposition of claim 1, wherein the complex metal salt of(−)hydroxycitric acid comprises a structure of:

wherein each (X,X) is independently selected from (Ca), (Mg), (Zn),(K,K), (Na,Na), or (K,Na), and at least one (X,X) is (Ca), (Mg), (Zn).18. An oral herbal composition consisting essentially of green teaextract, green coffee extract, banaba extract, one or more complex metalsalts of (−) hydroxycitric acid, and a comestible excipient, wherein thegreen tea extract consists essentially of catechin polyphenols, caffeineand L-theanine, wherein the green coffee extract consists essentially ofchlorogenic acids and caffeine, and wherein the banaba extract consistsessentially of corosolic acid.
 19. A method for reducing body weight ina mammal comprising orally administering to a mammal an effective doseamount of a composition comprising Garcinia extract, green tea extract,green coffee extract and banaba extract, wherein the Garcinia extract isa complex metal salt of (−) hydroxycitric acid, wherein the green teaextract is a full spectrum extract containing catechin polyphenols,caffeine and L-theanine, wherein the green coffee extract is a fullspectrum extract containing chlorogenic acids, caffeine and polyphenol,and wherein the banaba extract contains corosolic acid.
 20. The methodof claim 19, wherein the mammal is an adult human and a daily dose ofthe composition comprises 1950 mg to 4875 mg of Garcinia extract. 21.The method of claim 19, wherein the mammal is an adult human and a dailydose of the composition comprises 225 mg to 600 mg of green tea extract.22. The method of claim 19, wherein the mammal is an adult human and adaily dose of the composition comprises 345 mg to 865 mg of green coffeeextract.
 23. The method of claim 19, wherein the mammal is an adulthuman and a daily dose of the herbal composition comprises 75 mg to 190mg of banaba extract.
 24. The method of claim 19, wherein the mammal isan adult human and a daily dose of the herbal composition comprisesabout 3900 mg Garcinia extract, about 450 mg green coffee extract, about600 mg green tea extract, and about 150 mg of banaba extract.
 25. Themethod of claim 24, wherein the herbal composition is administeredbetween 30 and 60 minutes before a meal.
 26. The method of claim 24,wherein the herbal composition is administered between 2 hours and 30minutes before one or more meals within a day.
 27. The method of claim19, wherein the herbal composition further comprises an excipient. 28.The method of claim 27, wherein the excipient is selected from the groupconsisting of a starch, pre-gelatinized starch, dicalcium phosphate,polyvinyl povidine, magnesium stearate, talc, isopropyl alcohol,carboxymethyl cellulose, hydroxymethylcellulose, ethyl cellulose,isopropyl alcohol and mixtures thereof.
 29. The method of claim 27,wherein the herbal composition is in form of a pharmaceutical selectedfrom the group consisting of a pill, a tablet, and a capsule.
 30. Themethod of claim 19, wherein the herbal composition further comprises apreservative.
 31. The method of claim 30, wherein the preservative isselected from the group consisting of propyl paraben sodium, methylparaben sodium, bronopol, and mixtures thereof.
 32. The method of claim19, wherein the orally administered form herbal composition comprisesabout 975 mg of Garcinia extract.
 33. The method of claim 19, whereinthe herbal composition comprises about 150 mg of green tea extract. 34.The method of claim 19, wherein the herbal composition comprises about112 mg of green coffee extract.
 35. The method of claim 19, wherein theherbal composition comprises about 37 mg of banaba extract.
 36. Themethod of claim 19, wherein the mammal is an adult human and a dailydose of the herbal composition comprises about 975 mg Garcinia extract,about 112 mg green coffee extract, about 150 mg green tea extract, andabout 37 mg of banaba extract.